Evaluating the effectiveness of training on sericulture cultivation among farmers in the Bholahat Region

Silk, a highly valuable asset of the textile industry, intertwines tradition and contemporary demands in Bangladesh. This study delves into the effectiveness of sericulture training programs for Bangladeshi farmers within the Bholahat upazila, a region pulsating with historical significance and contributing 75% of the nation's silk production. Employing Kirkpatrick's four-level model and a mixed-methods approach, thoroughly examine the impact of training on farmers' reactions, learning, behavior, and ultimately, results. The investigation, encompassing 192 trained farmers, reveals promising yet intricate results.A substantial majority (88.02%) express positive impressions of the training, with 80.21% reporting significant improvements in knowledge, skills, and attitudes. However, a closer look reveals a spectrum of effectiveness. Those with medium gains might benefit from more targeted resources or struggle with skill application, while the high-effectiveness group (7.81%) may require advanced training tailored to their existing expertise.The analysis further showcases the multifaceted benefits of training. At the forefront of this improvement is the cocoon yield, which serves as a clear indicator of trained farmers' superior performance. Following closely are positive effects on income, mulberry leaf yield, silk quality, and market prices. The study also highlights gains in efficiency, pest management, and socioeconomic status, suggesting a holistic advancement for farming communities.While increased interest in commercial sericulture ranks less essential, it underscores a positive shift in attitude. Overall, the investigation unravels the intricate tapestry of training's influence, revealing its crucial role in empowering Bangladeshi farmers and strengthening the nation's position in the global silk market.

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Introduction

Silk holds the regal title of "Queen of Fibers." It's a luxurious and highly prized natural fiber that has been cultivated through the intricate art of sericulture for centuries. This ancient craft of silk cultivation incorporates traditional elements in a complex and interconnected manner with innovation, bridging the past with the demands of the contemporary textile industry. In Bangladesh, sericulture holds significant cultural and economic importance, standing at the crossroads of tradition, economic prosperity, and global competitiveness. As the country aims to fortify its position in the silk industry, the effectiveness of training programs among Bangladeshi sericulture farmers emerges as a crucial determinant. A sturdy training system equips sericulture farmers with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of silk farming, address challenges, and adopt innovations. While the importance of training in agriculture is widely acknowledged (Swanson & Rajalahti, 2010) [1] , there remains a need for empirical studies that specifically assess the impact of training initiatives in the context of sericulture. The importance of thoughtfully crafted training programs in sericulture is widely recognized, with studies revealing a positive association between training efforts and improved outcomes. Several studies highlight the positive correlation between training and agricultural productivity. Findings from studies on rice farming in Bangladesh indicate that well-designed training programs significantly improve farmers' knowledge and practices, leading to enhanced crop yields (Ali et al., 2015; Hasan et al., 2018) [2,3] . The consensus within the sericulture community supports the notion that strategic training interventions contribute significantly to advancements in sericulture practices, echoing the positive correlations found in the realm of agriculture (Feder et al., 2020; Sadashivappa & Biradar, 2016) [4,5] . The works of Islam et al. (2017) [6] emphasize the continuous skill development required among Bangladeshi sericulture farmers. This study underscores the positive correlation between training and enhanced productivity in the broader agricultural context. Bangladesh's conducive climate for sericulture has www.extensionjournal.com positioned it as a significant player in the global silk market (Islam et al., 2019) [7] . However, challenges such as market fluctuations, climate variability, and technological advancements necessitate a comprehensive examination of the current state of sericulture in the country. Rahman et al. (2021) [8] highlight the importance of understanding the unique challenges faced by Bangladeshi sericulture farmers, as these insights are integral to designing training programs tailored to the specific needs of this sector. Reports indicate that sericulture farmers in Bangladesh did not meet their production targets for various factors (BSDB, 2009; Morton & Sinha, 1995; Choudhury, 2021) [9,10,11] , while research institutes in Bangladesh achieve higher sericulture production rates under controlled conditions, farmer yields lag due to challenges like limited resources, infrastructure, and knowledge gaps. (Das & Halder, 2019; BSDB, 2020) [12,13] . Despite the acknowledged importance of training in bridging the production gap, research assessing the direct impact of sericulture training programs on farmer yields and income remains scarce. This lack of empirical data impedes effective program design and hinders efforts to tailor interventions to maximize their benefits for the specific needs of sericulture farmers (BSDB, 2020; Sarkar, 2018) [13,14] The complexities of sericulture pose unique challenges compared to other agricultural sectors. Fluctuations in mulberry leaf quality, the disease susceptibility of silkworms, and the labor-intensive nature of cocoon rearing all necessitate training programs that go beyond generic agricultural practices. Effective interventions must delve deeper, addressing these specific hurdles and equipping farmers with practical skills and knowledge tailored to their unique circumstances. (Roy & Mondal, 2022; CSB, 2021) [15, 16] . Evaluating training programs in sericulture is paramount, as it not only ensures the efficacy of interventions but also provides essential data-driven insights for continuous improvement, addressing the unique challenges of sericulture and promoting sustainable practices (Rahmathulla et al., 2012; Das & Halder, 2019) [17,12] . The findings of Rahman et al. (2021) [18] and Islam et al. (2017) [6] collectively lay the groundwork for this investigation into the effectiveness of training initiatives within the intricate landscape of Bangladesh sericulture. The objective of the study was to assess how sericulture farmers perceive the effectiveness of the training they receive. The outcomes resulting from the training interventions were diverse and manifested in various forms. These changes included improvements in productivity, increased satisfaction among customers, enhanced profitability, more efficient operational processes, and a boost in morale among employees. The study recognized these diverse forms of results as key indicators of the overall impact and effectiveness of the training programs on sericulture farmers. The output result will provide insights for policymakers, sericultural extension services, and development practitioners to enhance the sustainability and profitability of silk farming. This exploration contributes to sericultural as well as agricultural training and sustainable rural livelihoods while preserving cultural heritage through informed sericultural practices.

Materials and Methods

The study focuses on a significant area in Bangladesh, specifically the traditional sericultural districts within the Bholahat upazila under Chapainawabganj district. This region holds historical significance, contributing 75% of the country's silk production (Wikipidia, 2021) [19] . A group of 192 respondents who received sericulture cultivation training were sampled. The evaluation of training effectiveness in this study was based on Kirkpatrick's wellestablished four-level model of indicators (Kirkpatrick, 1998) [20] , encompassing participants' reactions, the extent of learning, observed changes in behavior, and the ultimate results achieved. Employing a mixed-methods approach that includes surveys, interviews, and on-site observations, this study aims to comprehensively explore the intricate impact of training on sericulture farming practices. Furthermore, appropriate statistical analysis tools and methods are employed for the purpose of data analysis and presentation.

Data analysis

The data collected from household surveys underwent thorough processing and analysis using relevant software tools, including IBM SPSS Statistics 20 and Microsoft Excel 2021. The study included manual calculations and analysis of economic parameters for each household as a crucial aspect of the research.

Results and Discussion

The main aim of this investigation was to evaluate the effectiveness of the training provided to farmers involved in sericulture cultivation. To establish a comprehensive evaluation framework, we chose to employ Kirkpatrick's four-level model of training assessment. Moreover, the researcher focused on evaluating the extent to which each farmer became integrated into the training initiative. To accomplish these goals, 12 statements were formulated for each of the four evaluation levels, resulting in a total of 48 statements. These levels were designed to encapsulate the dimensions of reaction, learning, behavior, and results. A scoring system, spanning from 12 to 60 for each level, was applied, leading to an aggregate score that ranged from 48 to 240. The results of Kirkpatrick's four-level model are described below:

Effectiveness of Training on Reaction Level

The data shown in Table 1 presents the findings of the study based on the farmer's reaction level scores during training sessions. The farmer's scores varied from 12 to 58, with an average of 45.63 percent and a standard deviation of 10.43. The study categorized the farmers into three groups based on their mean and standard deviation, which were "low," "medium," and "high" reaction levels. This categorization provided a wise comprehension of the varied responses among the farmers and shed light on the wide range of reactions to the training program. www.extensionjournal.com

Category	Farmers	—	Mean	Standard Deviation	Max/Min
	Number	Percent
Low	23	11.98	45.63	10.43	Max = 58, Min= 12
Medium	153	79.69
High	16	8.33
Total	192	100

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Farmers' Distribution to Reaction Level of Training Effectiveness

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Effectiveness of Training on the Learning Level

The study assessed participants' learning levels, which ranged from 16 to 59, resulting in a mean score of 45.62 percent and a standard deviation of 9.40. Categorizing farmers' responses into "low," "medium," and "high" groups based on training effectiveness and learning level, Table 2 illustrates the distribution of farmers across these categories.

Categories	Farmers	—	Mean	Standard deviation	Max/Min
	Number	Percent
Low	23	11.98	45.62	9.40	Max = 59, Min= 16
Medium	155	80.73
High	14	7.29
Total	192	100

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Farmers' Distribution to Learning Level of Training

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Effectiveness of Training on the Behavioral Level

The scores for farmers' displayed behavior levels varied from 16 to 60, having a mean of 45.29 and a standard deviation of 9.51. Categorizing farmers into "low," "medium," and "high" levels of behavior change based on the mean and standard deviation, Table 3 illustrates the distribution of farmers across these behavior-changing training effectiveness levels. witnessed less change, possibly attributed to their preexisting knowledge, advanced skills, or a potential mismatch between the training and their specific needs.

Categories	Farmers	—	Mean	Standard Deviation	Max/Min
	Numbers	Percentage
Low	24	12.50	45.29	9.51	Max= 60, Min= 16
Medium	152	79.17
High	16	8.33
Total	192	100

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Farmers' Distribution to Behavioral Level of Training Effectiveness

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Effectiveness of Training on Result Level

The farmers' result-level scores varied from 21 to 60, with a mean of 46.68 and a standard deviation of 8.96. By categorizing farmers into "low," "medium," and "high" result groups using the mean and standard deviation, you can find a detailed breakdown in Table 4 for an overview of their training effectiveness. The data unequivocally demonstrates that sericulture training boosts farmers' confidence in making informed decisions. This implies that the more farmers gain from the training, such as knowledge, improved skills, or positive attitudes toward farming techniques, the more they perceive it as effective. In essence, the more they learn, the more they appreciate the training.

Categories	Farmers	—	Mean	Standard Deviation	Max/Min
	Number	Percent
Low	22	11.46	46.68	8.96	Max= 60, Min= 21
Medium	151	78.64
High	19	9.90
Total	192	100

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Farmers' Distribution to Result Level of Training

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Overall Effectiveness of Training on Four Levels

The effectiveness of the four levels of the Kirkpatrick training evaluation model was analyzed using data collected from farmers. The overall effectiveness score extended across 65 to 237, including a mean of 183.21, accompanied by a standard deviation of 38.12. To enhance understanding, farmers' responses were categorized into "low," "medium," and "high" overall training effectiveness groups. Refer to Table 5 for a detailed breakdown of farmers based on their overall training effectiveness levels. 6 to 9). The legends utilized in Tables 6 to 9 are as follows: SA represents Strongly Agree, A represents Agree, UD represents Undecided, DA represents Disagree and SD represents Strongly Disagree. The data shown in Table 9 summarizes that the rankings of sericulture training indicators suggest that farmers who undergo such training experience significant benefits. The top indicator emphasizes improved cocoon yield, indicating that trained farmers outperform their non-trained counterparts. Subsequent rankings highlight positive effects on farmers' income, mulberry leaf yield, reduced silkworm mortality, better market prices for cocoons, increased efficiency, and minimized production costs. Additionally, training contributes to disease and pest management, the production of high-quality cocoons, improved socioeconomic status, and enhanced health and nutritional well-being. While the least essential indicator pertains to increased interest in commercial sericulture among trained farmers, it suggests a positive shift in attitudes without a substantial impact on production or economic outcomes (Figure 2). Overall, the rankings underscore the multifaceted advantages of sericulture training for farmers. Similar findings are reported in studies by Asfaw et al. (2012) [21] , Bhullar et al. (2016) [22] , Ali et al. (2018) [23] , Mvena et al. (2014) [24] , Karugia et al. (2017) [25] , Kumar et al. (2017) [26] , IFAD (2015) [27] , and CGIAR (n.d.) [28] .

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Rank Order of the Indicators of Effectiveness of Training on Result Level

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Sl. No.	Statements	Extent of opinion	—	—	—	—	—	Rank Order
		SA* 5	A* 4	UD.* 3	D* 2	SD* 1	TEI Total
1	I got the best yield of mulberry leaves.	63	101	2	20	6	771	3
2	I got the best cocoon yield.	72	119	0	1	0	838	1
3	I got the best market price of cocoons	55	101	3	26	7	747	5
4	The mortality rate of silkworm during rearing is decreasing	59	101	2	24	6	759	4
5	I harvested the best size and shape of cocoon	45	109	2	26	10	729	8
6	As a result of receiving the training, my income from sericulture has increased	70	94	5	22	1	786	2
7	I think as per training, the unnecessary production cost has been minimized	46	112	3	22	9	740	7
8	My socio-economic status has been improved	42	112	2	25	11	725	10
9	After received training my efficiency improvements have significantly reduced the time it takes to complete silkworm rearing tasks	47	111	2	24	8	741	6
10	Mulberry and silkworm diseases & pests have been reduced as a result of training	40	117	1	24	10	729	8
11	My health and nutritional status has been improved	36	117	3	26	10	719	11
12	Mentally I became interested in more commercial sericulture in the future.	27	110	14	28	13	686	12

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Categories	Farmers	—	Mean	Standard deviation	Max/Min
	Numbers	Percentage
Low	23	11.80	183.21	38.12	Max= 237 Min= 65
Medium	154	80.21
High	15	7.81
Total	192	100

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Overall Effectiveness of Training Distribution of Farmers

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Limitations and potential areas for future research

The study was limited to one upazila in order to evaluate the impact of training on their sericulture cultivation. Consequently, the findings may not reflect the picture of the entire country. In the future, this sort of research may be expanded to cover additional regions across the entire country, enabling the acquisition of comprehensive information on this subject.

Acknowledgement

AcknowledgementThe study works for this manuscript were done under the Ph.D. dissertation in JU. So authors are highly acknowledged to Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Bangladesh.

Figures and tables from the paper

Sl. No.	Statements	Extent of opinion	—	—	—	—	—	Rank Order
		SA* 5	A* 4	UD.* 3	D* 2	SD* 1	TEI Total
1	I am satisfied with reception and registration process	51	135	3	0	3	807	1
2	I am satisfied with the course content	78	82	11	13	8	785	2
3	I am satisfied with the course time.	38	121	10	11	12	738	3
4	I am satisfied with the educational equipment.	41	113	9	18	11	731	4
5	I am satisfied with the instructors' teaching and confident in their expertise	49	96	14	21	12	725	5
6	I am satisfied with the trainer's responsiveness to trainee questions and issues	43	101	17	19	12	720	9
7	I am satisfied with the trainer's delivery and elucidation of the training materials	38	110	17	14	13	722	7
8	I am satisfied with the instructors' discipline in educational activities, like timing	42	103	21	12	14	723	6
9	I am satisfied with the trainer's ability to build positive relationships with participants	34	119	11	14	14	721	8
10	I am content with the training service quality for trainees	35	103	25	12	16	707	10
11	I am satisfied with the performance of the training center staff	19	129	10	18	16	693	12
12	I am satisfied with fairness of the course exam (pre & post-test)	22	120	18	18	14	694	11

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Rank Order of the Effectiveness Indicators of Training on Reaction Level

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Distribution Effectiveness of Training of Sericulture

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Sl. No.	Statements	Extent of opinion	—	—	—	—	—	Rank Order
		SA* 5	A* 4	UD.* 3	D* 2	SD* 1	TEI Total
1	I have learned newly released mulberry and silkworm variety	45	138	1	8	0	796	1
2	I learned updated information about silkworm rearing technology	69	79	4	37	3	750	3
3	I have learned about modern mulberry cultivation system	48	116	2	19	7	755	2
4	I learned the importance of temperature and environment in silkworm rearing.	48	107	3	26	8	737	7
5	I learned the appropriate timing and amount for fertilizing and irrigating mulberry fields.	51	106	4	24	7	746	4
6	I learned about the prevention and treatment of various diseases and pests of mulberry and silkworm.	49	108	3	24	8	742	5
7	Learned about the many beneficial uses of surplus and waste produced during silkworm rearing	42	111	5	24	10	727	8
8	Learned the method and importance of cleanliness in silkworm rearing	43	114	9	14	12	738	6
9	Learned about mulberry fruit nutrition and mulberry intercropping to meet family nutritional needs	33	114	7	29	9	709	11
10	I am satisfied with theoretical and practical sessions of the training	41	106	6	29	10	715	10
11	The concept became more apparent to me after receiving the training	38	113	8	23	10	722	9
12	Capable of comparing traditional and modern sericulture technologies	13	122	5	33	19	653	12

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Rank order of The Indicators of Effectiveness of Training on Learning Level

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Sl. No.	Statements	Extent of opinion	—	—	—	—	—	Rank Order
		SA* 5	A* 4	UD.* 3	D* 2	SD* 1	TEI Total
1	Changed old or traditional concepts on mulberry cultivation and silkworm rearing	54	131	0	7	0	808	1
2	I Dig the soil in the mulberry at the right time	71	87	0	30	4	767	2
3	I Apply proper amount of fertilizer and irrigation to mulberry land	59	104	0	23	6	763	3
4	I prune the mulberry tree with the correct method and time.	52	101	0	30	9	733	4
5	During silkworm rearing a certain amount of silkworm is reared in each tray	53	97	0	32	10	727	6
6	I control the temperature and environment of the room depending on the age of the silkworm	44	110	0	30	8	728	5
7	I follow the hygiene of the entrance to silkworm rearing room	40	104	0	38	10	702	10
8	My confident and farming skill has been improved	37	107	2	33	13	698	11
9	Quality and quantity of my work has improved	42	113	1	25	11	726	7
10	I am capable to identify lacks & problems and to overcome farming problems of sericulture cultivation	38	110	1	33	10	709	9
11	My sericulture technology proficiency has improved, and I now offer guidance to others for better farming practices	38	117	0	25	12	720	8
12	My leadership and technology dissemination skills have improved, and I encourage others to adopt modern sericultural practices	12	112	0	42	26	518	12

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Rank Order of the Indicators of Effectiveness of Training on Behavior Level

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